Pope Francis publicly talked about his death and prospective early retirement during a press conference with reporters on Alitalia flight. During the time of conference, he was reportedly returning to the Vatican City from five-day-trip to Asia. Talking playfully, the 77-year-old head of the Roman Catholic Church told the reporters that he expects to live only "two to three years more."

According to Daily Mail, Pope Francis also talked about the probability of an early retirement that he opt for if he feels he is unable to carry out his duties in an adequate manner.

"I see it as the generosity of the people of God. I try to think of my sins, my mistakes, not to become proud. Because I know it will last only a short time," Pope Francis told the reporters.

"Two or three years and then I'll be off to the Father's house," the leader of the Catholic Church added.

Pope Francis took over the papacy on March 13, 2013, after the resignation of Benedict XVI. Pope was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina on 17 Dec. 1936.

This is the first time the religious leader has publicly expressed his thoughts about his death. However, it is reported that a source from the Vatican revealed that Pope Francis "had previously told those close to him that he thought he only had a few years left."

As for giving up the papacy, he said it is very much possible "even if it does not appeal to some theologians." The religious leader made a rare admission about having "some nerve problems" that he feels needs medical intervention.

"Must treat them well, these nerves, give them mate [an Argentinian stimulant tea] every day," Pope Francis joked while talking to the reporters.

In other news, Pope Francis has recently suffered the loss of three relatives, who were killed in a car crash in Argentina. According to ABC, The tragic car accident led to the death of Pope's nephew Emanuel Horacio Bergoglio's two infants and wife. Emanuel was reportedly driving the car and is now in a critical condition. It is said the unfortunate accident took place "on a highway in the central province of Cordoba." The car reportedly thrashed into a truck resulting in an explosion. The report notes that Pope Francis has been informed about the tragedy and he is "deeply pained."